Updates – Sauder Teaching Playbook

Canvas Updates: IgniteAI Search for Courses

Canvas Release Date: Jan 19, 2026

We finally got it!

Search course content in Canvas using advanced AI and semantic algorithms. The search feature understands the context of queries, providing more accurate and relevant results. IgniteAI Search for Courses facilitates faster content discovery for both teachers and students.

Currently, the feature is querying the following sources within a course:

Assignments
Announcements
Discussions
Pages

With the option of filtering by a specific source or any combination of the above.

How to enable in your course:

Click Settings > Feature Options. Scroll to find IgniteAI Search for Courses and toggle the Red X to a Green Checkmark. Hit refresh to reload the page, then IgniteAI Search will appear on the left-side Navigation pane.

To learn more, check out What is IgniteAI Search for Courses? and Canvas Release Notes for IgniteAI Search.

If you’re interested in using this technology or have questions, please reach out to help@sauder.ubc.ca.

Canvas Updates: Differentiation Tags

Canvas Release Date: Jan 21, 2026

Differentiation Tags are a Canvas feature that allows instructors to create custom sets of students within a course. These sets function similarly to groups but are hidden from students and can be used for various organizational and instructional purposes.

why would i use differentiation tags?

Targeted Assignments: Easily assign homework, quizzes, or other materials to specific student tag sets using the “Assign To” feature
Differentiated Instruction: To provide personalized learning experiences, create tag sets based on learning styles, academic needs or interests
Accommodation Tracking: Discreetly tag students who require accommodations, allowing instructors to identify and address their needs quickly
Streamlined Communication: Communicate with specific student tag sets through the Inbox without alerting the whole class
Gradebook Filtering: Filter the traditional Gradebook to view and analyze the performance of specific student tag sets

Learn more about Differentiation Tags on the Canvas site: Differentiation Tags • FAQ

If you’re interested in using this technology or have questions, please reach out to help@sauder.ubc.ca.